Ken Grimes, the former director of external affairs for Orange Beach, has been named city administrator for Hoover, the city announced Monday.

Grimes, who starts his new position Oct. 31, replaces Allan Rice, the former Hoover city administrator since 2016 who retired Aug. 1 to pursue an opportunity in the private sector.

“The City of Hoover needed someone that had experience as a city manager or city administrator. Ken has more than twenty years with Orange Beach,” Hoover Mayor Frank V. Brocato said in a statement announcing the hiring of Grimes.

“I was impressed with his many capabilities and experiences in dealing with disaster management, economic development, government finances, the large number of employees he had to manage, and his ability to communicate with citizens, businesses, and elected officials,” the mayor continued.

As city administrator, Grimes is the second-highest ranking public official in Hoover. He will oversee all aspects of city operations and work closely with elected officials, city departments and city residents.

The Bessemer native served in several positions in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores over the last 22 years, including city administrator, director of parks and recreation, acting city clerk and special projects coordinator.

“I am truly excited about the opportunity to lead the City of Hoover as we work toward accomplishing the many goals and projects established by the administration,” Grimes said in a statement.

“I see tremendous potential before us and wholeheartedly embrace the City’s vision of “infinite possibilities”. It is achievable!” he went on to say. “With teamwork, communication, fiscal responsibility, and respect as guiding principles, we can prove there are truly unlimited opportunities to grow Hoover not just for this generation, but the many that are to come.”

Hoover City Council President John Lyda said he was excited for Grimes’ hiring.

“The City Administrator plays an integral role in the day-to-day delivery of quality services our residents deserve, and I am confident Mr. Grimes will excel in his new role,” he said.